The Uncompromise Podcast: Transformative Leadership Advice From Change Agents

Food Insecurity, Urban Agriculture & How To Empower Community Led Solutions | feat. Whitney Strauss

Lisa Gardner, is joined by Whitney Strauss, the Executive Director of AdvoCare Foundation and Senior Counsel at Sunwest Communications. Whitney discusses the evolution of diversity and inclusion, as well as the benefits of urban agriculture.  Whitney also highlights her doctoral research on the impact of urban farms in addressing food insecurity across the United States. She shares stories of transformative community projects in Detroit, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, where local leaders have created resilient food systems and fostered community collaboration. Whitney also chats about the challenges and successes of these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of local solutions and the need for accessible funding in the philanthropic sector. Also in this episode: Whitney's career highlights include transformative roles at March of Dimes and Lockheed Martin, and she currently serves on the boards of the Dallas Holocaust Museum and Human Rights Museum. True inclusivity means all voices are heard and solutions are multidisciplinary. The argument against the notion of reverse racism, advocating for diversity and inclusion as beneficial for everyone. The impact of urban agriculture, including successful community-led initiatives in cities like Detroit, LA, and Philadelphia. The importance of local solutions and community control in addressing food access and other social issues. Reduce barriers to accessing capital and support grassroots organizations for lasting change.  Instilling values like curiosity, empathy, and integrity in the next generation to foster a life of uncompromised commitment to social impact.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok   About Whitney Strauss Whiteny is the Executive Director of the AdvoCare Foundation, a $5M private foundation focused on ending childhood obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles through nutrition education, healthy food access, and physical education across 10 states. Since 2017, she’s led the foundation's vision, mission, operations, grantmaking, fundraising, partnerships, and advocacy. Additionally, Whitney is a Senior Counsel at Sunwest Communications, specializing in civic projects, corporate social responsibility, and nonprofit organizations. As an International Sustainable Business Advisor, she aligns clients' practices with ESG standards. She is also pursuing a Doctorate at SMU, studying urban farms' impact, and authored the award-winning "My Sweet Child" children's book series.  Connect With Whitney Strauss LinkedIn  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

“Lifting as We Climb”: How To Build Careers, Communities, and Representation in Real Estate | feat. Kimberly Brown

Lisa Gardner is joined by Kimberly Brown, the president of the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) in Los Angeles, to discuss authentic representation, diversity across the industry and the idea of “lifting as we climb”. Highlighting the influx of young talent dedicated to community development, Kimberly believes in the transformative potential of organizations like AAREP in nurturing talent and embedding equity in real estate projects. Through personal reflections and professional advice, Brown's narrative inspires listeners to embrace meaningful careers grounded in integrity and purpose, signaling a future of inclusive and impactful urban development.   Also in this episode:  A significant increase in young black talent passionate about community development roles over corporate positions. Organizations like AAREP are crucial in fostering black talent and ensuring accessible opportunities in real estate development. Proactive steps, including networking and alliances, are taken to prepare and include black professionals in the industry. Why young professionals should accept offers from large firms for training and learn financial modeling. Patience, understanding organizational dynamics, and gaining work experience are essential for career growth. Kim’s personal challenges, the importance of sponsors, and trends of black women seeking impactful roles.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Kimberly Brown LinkedIn  About Kimberly Brown Kimberly Brown is the Managing Principal of IMPACT Realty Advisors and a founding partner of Housing Impact Partners, focusing on affordable and workforce housing to create generational wealth. With over 30 years of experience, she manages investor relationships and sources opportunities for various investors. She also has 20 years of experience in Supplier Diversity, emphasizing inclusive sourcing and access to MBEs and BIPOC developers. Her work is driven by ESG initiatives, impacting historically overlooked communities. Named “2022 Commercial Real Estate Woman of the Year” and a “2023 Leader of Influence,” she also leads the African American Real Estate Professionals LA Chapter.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

The “Pet To Threat” Phenomenon & The Difference Between Having A Mentor vs. Sponsor | feat. Herman Bulls

Lisa Gardner is joined by Herman Bulls, Vice Chairman at JLL. To discuss insights on overcoming challenges like discrimination and unconscious bias, the “pet to threat” phenomenon, having a mentor vs. Sponsor, and the importance of mentorship.   With 33 years in real estate, Bulls discusses founding the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) and the impact of diversity in corporate America. Bulls recounts his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing integrity, perseverance, and the power of setbacks. He also reflects on his late wife’s influence on their family, highlighting the role of parental behavior in children's success. Join for an inspiring discussion on leadership, resilience, and success.  Also in this episode:     Founding AAREP: Bulls is a trailblazer who founded the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) group in Washington, DC, to support African American professionals in real estate. Diversity and Inclusion:  particularly following events like George Floyd's death, emphasizing the need for corporations to mirror the marketplace's demographic shifts. Challenges for Minorities: He highlights challenges such as outright discrimination, unconscious bias, and the "pet to threat" phenomenon, advising minorities on navigating these dynamics. Leadership and Success: the qualities needed for success, such as emotional intelligence, authenticity, preparedness, and balancing confidence with humility. They also discuss the importance of celebrating others' successes and fostering an inclusive environment. Mentorship vs. Sponsorship: while mentorship can be sought, sponsorship must be earned through performance and reputation. Entrepreneurial Lessons: He shares a personal anecdote about a failed real estate investment, which taught him the importance of integrity and perseverance. Despite the failure, Bulls and his partners maintained their commitment to their investors.  Family Influence: The conversation concludes with a reflection on family, particularly the influence of his late wife, Iris, on their sons. Bulls emphasizes the significance of parental behavior in shaping children's futures and advocates for empathy, emotional connections, and tough love in parenting.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Herman Bulls LinkedIn  About Herman Bulls Herman is the International Director and Vice Chairman at JLL, a global financial and professional services firm specializing in real estate operations and investment management. With over 34 years of experience, he helps senior executives solve complex real estate challenges and achieve their strategic goals.  Herman also serves as a Member of the Defense Policy Board at the US Department of Defense, providing advice and opinions on matters of defense policy. Additionally, he is the Vice Chairman of the Board at USAA, a Fortune 100 diversified financial services firm serving the needs of military members and their families. Herman is a NACD Fellow and have been recognized as one of the most influential individuals in corporate America and one of the top 100 corporate governance professionals in the nation. His specialties include real estate, finance, strategy, leadership, governance, and communication. Herman is passionate about delivering value, creating impact, and building trust.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Finding A Seat at the Corporate Table Doesn’t Mean You Succumb To Assimilation | feat. Dorothy Jones

Lisa Gardner is joined by Dorothy Jones, Chief Marketing Officer at Dallas College, to discuss maintaining authenticity and integrity while trying to find a seat at the table in corporate settings.   Dorothy shares her strategies for storytelling, the pressures women face in business, and the importance of mentorship and sponsorship. Dorothy also explores the cultural differences between the private sector and higher education, highlighting Dallas College's mission-driven culture. Gain insights into building impactful brands, fostering inclusive leadership, and supporting diverse executives.   Also in this episode:  Women and Authenticity: Jones highlights the struggle women face in maintaining authenticity in corporate settings, often having to conform to cultural norms and suppress their true selves to gain acceptance and leadership positions. Emotional Intelligence: the unique value women bring to the corporate table, such as emotional intelligence, relationship-building, and the ability to listen and observe before acting. Brand Fundamentals: Successful brand management requires understanding the fundamentals, including brand purpose, mission, goals, value proposition, and knowing the business one is in. Diversity in Leadership: the ongoing challenges of achieving it in marketing and corporate sectors. She notes that true inclusivity is still rare at senior levels. Support and Mentorship: the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in career development, providing support, guidance, and opportunities for growth, especially for women and people of color. Overcoming Challenges: Jones shares strategies for emerging as a leader in environments where one might be overlooked or undervalued, including preparation, building relationships, balancing listening and speaking, and understanding the dynamics of the room.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Dorothy Jones LinkedIn  About Dorothy Jones High-energy executive leader with a diverse background in managing small to large companies, budgets, and teams. I excel in operational excellence, strategic decision-making, and accountability management. My multi-dimensional skillset enhances work culture, drives performance, and ensures unique customer experiences through problem-solving and data analysis. Growth-minded, I integrate information to devise cohesive plans that drive action, aligning with visionary goals for accelerated company growth. Expertise includes brand strategy, communications, marketing, media management, crisis management, community relations, and innovation. Known for strategizing and executing deliverables for outstanding customer experiences, I am poised to be a valuable asset in a growth-oriented company.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Change Starts with Listening First And Speaking Second: Boardroom Strategies for Leaders | feat. Christa Brown Sanford

Lisa Gardner is joined by Christa Brown Sanford, Chair of the Intellectual Property Department and key member of the Executive and Diversity & Inclusion Committees at her firm. Together they discuss boardroom dynamics and the balance between listening and speaking. Christa shares insights on balancing faith and professional life, highlighting daily prayer and reliance on God. She discusses career milestones, the importance of sponsorship, and the challenges of being a trailblazer as an African American woman. She emphasizes authenticity, recounting her decision to wear braids to work, and her goal to foster diversity in the legal industry. Finally, she shares the top character traits she instills in her children: God-dependence, empathy, and resilience. Also in this episode:   Role of Faith: daily prayer and reliance on God rather than self-reliance, citing the scripture "Trust in the Lord with all your heart." Importance of Sponsorship: the critical role of sponsorship in career advancement and the commitment to mentoring and sponsoring others to help them achieve success. Work-Life Integration: Rejecting the notion of balance, Krysta embraces the chaos and flexibility required to manage her professional, personal, and community responsibilities. She stresses the importance of planning and self-care, taking 30 minutes daily for herself. Boardroom Dynamics: strategies for being effective in environments where you may be the only person of your background. She focuses on understanding dynamics, listening, and making impactful contributions, including adapting to virtual board dynamics during COVID-19. Authenticity in Professional Settings: Krysta recounts her decision to wear braids again, challenging old norms and setting an example of authenticity and empowerment for others in the legal profession. Promoting Diversity in Law: particularly striving to increase the representation of Black women in leadership positions. Character Traits for Children: Krysta outlines the top three character traits she wants to instill in her children: God-dependence, empathy, and resilience.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Christa Brown Sanfrod LinkedIn  About Christa Brown Sanford Registered patent lawyer with experience in patent procurement, patent portfolio development, patent litigation, intellectual property licensing, and patent licensing in a variety of technical areas, including telecommunications, semiconductor fabrication, analog and digital circuits, electronics, software, application, financial services, blockchain, cryptocurrency, and mechanical devices.  Specialties: Intellectual property licensing, patent procurement, patent portfolio development, patent litigation  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Creating Ohio’s First Black Owned Bank & Why “We Need To Be More Tolerable Of Our Own” | feat. Jordan A Miller

Lisa Gardner is joined by Jordan A. Miller Jr., the chairman and CEO of Adelphi Bank, Ohio's first black owned bank.  Miller shares his journey from early challenges, including dropping out of college and facing resistance as a black bank examiner, to his leadership role at Fifth Third Bank. He emphasizes the importance of economic access for the Black community, advocating for entrepreneurship and homeownership. Miller proposes incentivizing support for black-owned businesses and stresses the need for financial literacy. Inspired by his parents' values, he envisions expanding Adelphi Bank's presence in underserved markets and remains committed to community empowerment beyond banking. Also in this episode: Overcoming Adversity in Banking: Miller emphasizes overcoming personal and systemic challenges, such as higher operational costs and regulatory skepticism, when founding Adelphi Bank to serve underserved communities. Advocacy for Minority Banks: Miller advocates for a different approach to support minority banks, emphasizing the importance of finding investors who understand and are patient with the mission of serving underserved communities. Diversity in Leadership: Miller discusses his efforts to increase diversity within organizations, such as hiring more diverse candidates and mentoring others, to change the predominantly white, male leadership structure. National Bankers Association Conference: Miller shares insights from a conference where leaders of minority-owned banks discussed best practices and strategies for strengthening their institutions, focusing on topics like CRA reform and community impact. Vision for Economic Growth: Jordan's vision involves encouraging Black entrepreneurship and homeownership, supported by financial literacy and incentives to use Black-owned businesses for property management needs. Commitment to Community:  Jordan expresses a deep commitment to empowering his community through financial services, inspired by his parents' examples, and remains open to expanding his efforts beyond banking to help underserved communities. Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Jordan A Miller LinkedIn  About Jordan A Miller Jordan Miller, a Columbus, Ohio native with nearly 35 years in the financial industry, is a retired Regional President of Fifth Third Bank Central Ohio. He now advises business and community organizations on strategic objectives and serves on nonprofit and for-profit boards. An Air Force veteran, Jordan began his banking career at the Comptroller of the Currency and spent over 14 years at Huntington National Bank. He joined Fifth Third in 1998, holding various leadership roles until retiring in 2019. Recognized for his community and business leadership, he was inducted into the Central Ohio Junior Achievement Hall of Fame.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

You CANNOT Be Afraid Of Who You Are: Being true to Yourself in a Competitive Industry | feat. Tamela Thornton

Lisa Gardner is joined by Tamela Thornton, a luminary in real estate management, discussing her unwavering integrity, being true to yourself, and her career challenges.   Thornton shares insights into maintaining authenticity and confronting adversity in a closed industry. Raised in a supportive Midwestern environment, she credits her upbringing for shaping her resilience and commitment to excellence. Reflecting on her journey, Thornton emphasizes the importance of humility, boldness, and empathy in leadership. She advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, urging listeners to uphold standards and empower others. Thornton finds joy in family, music, and nurturing relationships, offering advice to live uncompromised lives by bringing out the best in oneself and others.  Also in this episode:   Tamela's leadership includes initiatives like Champions of Change, fostering diversity and mentorship in the industry. She has a global perspective from executive roles at Young Brands, PepsiCo, and Starbucks, shaping international markets. Tamela emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal integrity and authenticity, even in challenging professional environments. Tamela's approach to handling both victory and disappointment is grounded in recognizing the hard work and setbacks that contribute to success. She emphasizes the importance of humility, boldness, and emotional maturity in navigating professional challenges. Tamela advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, highlighting the need for acknowledging and addressing systemic inequalities. Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Tamela Thorton LinkedIn  About Tamela Thorton Tamela Thornton, with 30 years in real estate management, analytics, and development, is Head of Client Services for E Smith Advisors and President and CEO of E Smith Communities. She oversees business development, strategic planning, market analysis, site selection, and transaction management. As a founding partner of E Smith Legacy Holdings, she led corporate real estate transitions. Tamela has served national and global clients in market strategy, site selection, leasing, and financial services. Previously, she held executive roles at YUM! Brands and Starbucks, leading construction and development. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and resides in Dallas, Texas.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

People Are Watching More Than You Think: How Small Moments Are Defining Your Leadership | feat. Garland Fuller

Lisa Gardner is joined by Garland Fuller, a DEI advocate with extensive experience in HR and talent acquisition to discuss how small moments are defining your leadership, the importance of fostering inclusion, and combating biases in corporate settings.  She advises individuals, especially those in C-suite positions, to embrace continuous learning and seek diverse mentorship. The discussion highlights the need for inclusive leadership at all levels and addresses challenges in change management. Fuller underscores the value of upskilling and embracing failure as catalysts for growth. Overall, the conversation offers practical insights for promoting diversity and equity in organizations, encouraging leaders to prioritize inclusive cultures and work-life integration.  Also in this episode:   Rewarding Aspects of DEI Work: Fuller shares the fulfillment she derives from helping individuals recognize the value of their voices and combating imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of belonging and embracing unique contributions. Challenges in DEI: Fuller acknowledges challenges such as awareness disparities and implicit biases, highlighting the complexities involved in fostering true inclusion. Practical Strategies for C-suite: Fuller advocates for a growth mindset, mentorship, and continuous learning for individuals of color in leadership positions, emphasizing self-awareness and skill enhancement. Inclusivity at All Levels: Gardner and Fuller stress the need for inclusivity at all levels of leadership, challenging exclusionary norms and advocating for diverse representation in boardrooms. Change Management and Talent Acquisition: Fuller discusses the importance of upskilling employees and embracing failure as part of the learning process, urging organizations to adopt a flexible approach to change. Overall Importance of DEI: The conversation underscores the significance of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate settings, providing practical insights into driving meaningful change. Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Garland Fuller LinkedIn  About Garland Fuller Garland Fuller is an award-winning Career Strategist with over 10 years of experience. She empowers women to navigate and strategize their career paths, ensuring they secure ideal opportunities. As founder of Fuller Circle Consulting, Garland guides individuals towards transformative careers with confidence and clarity. With 8 years in career strategy and 15 years in HR, talent acquisition, and employee engagement, Garland co-founded Level Up Inclusion Partners and teach at USC Price School. She helps individuals and organizations optimize talent and foster inclusivity. Garland offers group coaching, individual sessions, and organizational workshops. She also host "Full Circle with Garland," a podcast on social impact and inclusion. She serves on the board of AAREP LA and was named one of Bisnow’s SoCal Power Women in 2021.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

The Cream Will Rise To The Top Regardless Of Color | feat. Torrey Littlejohn

Lisa Gardner is joined by Tori Littlejohn, JLL's senior managing director to discuss the transformative power of equity and the importance of fostering cultures of belonging. Discover how Tori's journey as the first black woman in her role shapes her insights and drives her passion for change. With personal anecdotes and practical strategies, this episode offers actionable insights into creating environments where everyone can thrive.   Also in this episode: 
Diversity extends beyond race to include various perspectives, experiences, ages, and backgrounds, enriching discussions and decision-making processes. 
 
Equity ensures equal access to opportunities and resources for all individuals, irrespective of their background, promoting fairness and leveling the playing field. 
 
Diverse teams offer valuable perspectives, particularly in client interactions, enhancing problem-solving and innovation. 
 
Diversity works reciprocally, where individuals can both bring diversity to others and gain diversity from their partners, benefiting everyone involved. 
 
Gratitude and faith play significant roles in navigating challenges and maintaining a positive outlook in personal and professional lives. 
 
Embracing authenticity and self-love, along with contributing to diversity and inclusion efforts, are essential for personal and professional fulfillment. 
 Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Torrey Littlejohn LinkedIn  About Torrey Littlejohn Torrey is more than a real estate advisor; She is a business partner solving complex business problems through real estate decisions, such as fiscal issues, cultural shifts, downsizing, or mergers. She builds trust with teams to foster long-term growth and enjoy seeing companies and communities evolve. Common reasons companies hire her include lowering occupancy costs, evaluating lease vs. purchase, assessing multiple sites for relocation, and resizing or reconfiguring space. With JLL’s national platform, Torrey has the support and resources of the strongest real estate firm in the country, empowering diverse working women to achieve bigger and better ambitions.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Can You Have It All: Family, Success, AND Be True To Who You Wish To Be? | feat. Judge Monica McCoy Purdy

Lisa Gardner welcomes special guest Judge Monica McCoy Purdy to delve into the complexities of navigating professional challenges of “can you have it all?” while upholding integrity and authenticity. Judge Purdy shares insights from her remarkable journey as the presiding judge of the 95th Judicial District in Dallas County, Texas.  They discuss the importance of maintaining authenticity and integrity in the face of professional challenges, drawing from personal experiences and lessons learned. The conversation alo extends to the broader societal issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as Judge Purdy offers thought-provoking perspectives on the ongoing struggle for equality in professional spaces.     Also in this episode:  Judge Purdy, a pioneer in the legal arena, prioritizes judicial excellence and community engagement. Purdy's upbringing in a middle-class neighborhood influenced her commitment to education and achievement. Her passion for law stemmed from observing community leaders speak for those who couldn't. Victory is celebrated with humility, acknowledging the support of others. Purdy handles defeat by learning from it and pushing harder for the next opportunity. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital for leveling the playing field and achieving fairness.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Judge Monica McCoy Purdy LinkedIn  About Judge Monica McCoy Purdy Experienced District Judge with a demonstrated history of working in the Judiciary. Skilled in Trials, Appeals, Hearings, Arbitration, and Trial Practice. Strong legal professional with a Juris Doctor focused in Law from Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children.